Thursday, August 9, 2018

One Dollar and Fourteen Cents Well Spent


These are my new friends, Eleanor and Ben.

Eleanor and Ben contacted me a few weeks ago after reading the article about my Mister Rogers collection that ran in the newspaper back in February. Over the phone, Eleanor mentioned that they had something to contribute to my personal "archive."

Today, just before I picked up my son from his martial arts camp (or "ninja camp," depending on who you're talking to), I met up with my new friends in a nearby Walgreen's parking lot. After introducing ourselves, Eleanor presented me with a homemade envelope which had been carefully sealed by weaving ribbon through holes punched along the edges.


Inside were the piece of a well-loved Playtime Puppet Theater! These stick puppets had belonged to their children who, according to Eleanor and Ben, put on countless puppet shows for them several decades ago. The fun that was had with these puppets was evident in every crease, every worn edge, and every repair made with tape.

  

As I collect Neighborhood memorabilia, I try my best to find items that are in the best condition possible. This collection, however, is a very welcomed exception to the rule. It gives me such a good feeling to hold these puppets that were once used by children playing the parts of characters from King Friday to Edgar Cooke.

Adding to the charm, the original price tag remains on the front.

$1.14 at K-Mart.


Many thanks to Eleanor and Ben for going out of their way to share their story with me!

143.